While out in the rain, removing the moss from between the patio pavers (an annual and soothingly repetitive chore), I had these random thoughts:

- Whoever you are,wherever you are from, if you send me a hand-written thank you note, I like you.

- What is Ruth Madoff doing right this minute?

- Did Stephanie Birkitt want to have Dave Letterman's baby?

- I once (or twice) told my daughter to marry for money, and then retracted my statement (sort of).

- Why is Starbucks selling instant coffee? I am embarrassed for them.

- For Christmas, I would like a power washer, a Le Creuset 5 1/2 qt. round dutch oven and a Cole Haan bag.

- If I could have lunch with any New York Times writer, I think I would pick Gail Collins.